Punjab on brink: 3-day LPG stock, black market prices hit ₹3,500

Chandigarh (The Uttam Hindu): The effects of the ongoing tensions and war in the Middle East are now being felt in Punjab. The supply of commercial LPG cylinders has virtually stopped in many districts of the state, which is likely to affect hotels, eateries, catering establishments, and wedding ceremonies. According to reports, the state has only two to three days' worth of commercial cylinders left.

Over 10,000 weddings are scheduled in the state in the coming days. Gas shortages could impact food and beverage arrangements at wedding ceremonies, and the number of dishes may have to be reduced.

According to gas agencies, efforts are currently being made to fulfill old bookings. This has led to a seven- to eight-day backlog, and new supplies are not arriving. However, District Food Supply Officer Sartaj Singh Cheema clarified that the supply of domestic gas cylinders is currently normal, and consumers need not panic.

On the other hand, people are facing difficulties due to technical problems. Server downtime in Ludhiana and Faridkot has affected booking of domestic cylinders. Meanwhile, the supply of commercial cylinders has reportedly stopped in several districts, including Faridkot, Hoshiarpur, and Patiala, since Monday. Amarveer Singh, president of the Punjab Hotel and Restaurant Association, said that the supply of commercial gas has virtually stopped. This is causing serious problems for hotels, restaurants, and those catering to wedding ceremonies. He said that if the situation does not return to normal within a day or two, the situation could worsen. An emergency meeting of the association has also been called on this issue. Meanwhile, cylinders are being sold in the black market for ₹3,500.